Eoin Ó Broin (Dublin Mid West, Sinn Fein)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

288. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide details of Ireland's position on the establishment of a European Union-wide negative list system for exotic animals. [47450/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

A proposal has been submitted for discussion at European level for the establishment of a European Union positive list for keeping companion animals. I welcome this initiative and support this effort to advance animal welfare and protect public health. The benefits in terms for animal welfare, biodiversity and public health and safety which this initiative could progress are very much aligned to Ireland’s overall national strategic goals in these important areas.

In line with the Programme for Government and the action identified in the the  Animal Welfare Strategy 2021-2025 - Working Together for Animal Welfare, I have asked my officials to take the lead in establishing an inter-departmental group to ensure a coherent national approach to policy and regulation related to exotic animals. Initial meetings of the group have taken place and the focus will be on regulating the keeping, breeding and trading of exotic animals.

Paul Murphy (Dublin South West, RISE)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

289. To ask the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will ensure the use of a live goat will be prohibited during the Puck Fair going forward, given public opinion was hugely in favour of prohibiting the use of a live goat in future.; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [47474/22]

Charlie McConalogue (Donegal, Fianna Fail)
Link to this: Individually | In context | Oireachtas source

The Programme for Government places a positive emphasis on animal welfare and specifically commits to the continued robust enforcement of the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013 (Act). The general principles enshrined in Section 11 and 12 of this Act apply to all animals, including goats.

During the event, officials from my Department were in contact with the independent private veterinary practitioner attending the Fair, emphasising the need for the organisers to take steps to assure the ongoing welfare of the goat. 

My Department welcomed the decision taken by the organisers, following contact between my officials and the independent veterinary practitioner at the Fair, to remove the goat from the elevated position on the Thursday morning and again on the Friday morning. 

As already  stated publicly, my Department will continue to keep the matter of the Puck Fair under review.